What Towers Does Fido Use? Understanding Fido’s Network and Coverage

Introduction

Fido Solutions, a popular Canadian mobile service provider, is known for offering affordable and reliable mobile plans. While customers value Fido for its services, many wonder about the infrastructure that powers its network. Specifically, what towers does Fido use to deliver its extensive coverage? In this guide, we’ll explore Fido’s network, the towers it relies on, and how it provides reliable connectivity across Canada.

What Towers Does Fido Use?

Fido does not operate its own network infrastructure or cell towers. Instead, it functions as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) under Rogers Communications. This means that Fido uses the same towers and network infrastructure as Rogers, one of Canada’s largest telecommunications providers.

Fido’s Network Infrastructure

As an MVNO, Fido relies entirely on the Rogers Wireless Network, which provides extensive coverage across urban, suburban, and rural areas in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of how this works:

1. Shared Towers

• Fido customers connect to the same cell towers used by Rogers customers.
• These towers are strategically located across Canada to ensure nationwide coverage.

2. Technology Integration

• Fido utilizes Rogers’ 4G LTE network, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity.
• Some areas also benefit from 3G/HSPA+ as a fallback option.

3. No 5G Yet

• Currently, Fido does not offer 5G connectivity, even though Rogers has an active 5G network. This may change as Fido expands its offerings in the future.

Coverage and Frequency Bands Used by Fido

Fido provides coverage to over 97% of Canada’s population, thanks to the expansive Rogers network. To achieve this, the network uses multiple frequency bands for both urban and rural areas.

Primary Frequency Bands:

1. 700 MHz (Band 12):
   • Excellent for penetrating buildings and providing strong signals in rural areas.
2. 850 MHz (Band 5):
   • Enhances indoor connectivity and call reliability.
3. 1700/2100 MHz (Band 4):
   • Balances capacity and coverage, especially in suburban areas.
4. 1900 MHz (Band 2):
   • Used for higher-speed data and urban connectivity.
5. 2600 MHz (Band 7):
   • Offers high-speed data services in dense urban areas.

These bands ensure consistent performance across different terrains and usage scenarios.

Benefits of Using Rogers Towers for Fido Customers

By utilizing Rogers’ infrastructure, Fido offers several advantages to its customers:

1. Nationwide Coverage

• Fido customers benefit from one of Canada’s most extensive networks, ensuring service availability across provinces and territories.

2. Reliable Connectivity

• The use of advanced LTE technology ensures strong signal strength and fewer dropped calls.

3. Cost-Effective Plans

• While Fido leverages Rogers’ premium network, its plans are often more affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for consumers.

4. Wide Device Compatibility

• The network supports a broad range of devices, from entry-level smartphones to high-end flagships.

How Fido Compares to Other Networks

Fido is considered a flanker brand of Rogers, meaning it targets budget-conscious customers while offering comparable coverage. Here’s how it stacks up against other similar brands:

1. Virgin Plus

• Operates on Bell’s network, offering comparable 4G LTE coverage.
• Recently introduced 5G services in some areas, which Fido has yet to adopt.

2. Koodo Mobile

• Uses Telus’ network, known for its strong presence in rural areas.
• Offers competitive pricing and similar perks.

3. Freedom Mobile

• Focuses on urban areas but lacks the nationwide coverage of Rogers, Bell, or Telus.
• Often provides cheaper plans but with limited reach.

Fido’s reliance on Rogers’ infrastructure ensures it offers better coverage than some of its competitors while maintaining affordability.

Challenges of Using Rogers Towers

While Fido benefits greatly from Rogers’ network, there are a few limitations:

1. No 5G Access

• Unlike Rogers customers, Fido users cannot access the 5G network.
• This puts Fido at a slight disadvantage compared to brands like Virgin Plus and Koodo, which have started offering 5G.

2. Dependent on Rogers’ Upgrades

• Any delays in Rogers’ network enhancements directly impact Fido customers.
• Network issues faced by Rogers also affect Fido.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fido’s Network

1. Does Fido have its own towers?

• No, Fido relies entirely on Rogers’ cell towers and infrastructure for its services.

2. Is Fido’s coverage the same as Rogers?

• Yes, Fido provides the same coverage as Rogers, except for access to the 5G network.

3. Can I use my Fido phone internationally?

• Yes, Fido offers international roaming services by partnering with networks abroad.

4. Why doesn’t Fido offer 5G?

• Fido is focused on providing affordable services and has not yet integrated 5G into its plans. However, future updates may include 5G.

5. Is Fido suitable for rural areas?

• Yes, thanks to Rogers’ towers, Fido offers reliable coverage in rural and remote areas.

How to Check Fido Coverage in Your Area

To ensure Fido provides coverage in your location:

1. Use Fido’s Coverage Map:
   • Visit Fido’s official website and check the interactive coverage map.
2. Consult Customer Support:
   • Fido representatives can provide detailed insights into coverage in your area.
3. Test with a Fido SIM Card:
   • Purchase a prepaid SIM card and test the network quality before committing to a plan.

Tips for Maximizing Fido’s Network Performance

1. Ensure Device Compatibility:
   • Make sure your smartphone supports the frequency bands used by Fido.
2. Update Device Software:
   • Regular updates can improve compatibility and signal reception.
3. Enable VoLTE:
   • If supported, enable Voice over LTE (VoLTE) for clearer calls and better connectivity.

Conclusion

Fido’s reliance on Rogers’ cell towers and infrastructure ensures robust nationwide coverage and reliable connectivity for its customers. By offering access to the extensive 4G LTE network at competitive prices, Fido strikes a balance between affordability and quality. While it currently lacks 5G services, its widespread coverage and user-friendly plans make it a strong contender in Canada’s mobile market.

Whether you’re looking for affordable mobile plans or reliable coverage, Fido offers a compelling option. For more insights into mobile networks and technology, visit Discoveringly.ca, your trusted source for Canadian tech and service reviews.